Remembering the incredible life of The Vivienne following tragic death aged 32
RuPaul's Drag Race UK winner The Vivienne tragically died over the weekend at just 32-years-old, leaving fans around the world devastated.
People have been struck by the sad news of The Vivienne's death, after living a life full of colour and being unapologetically themselves.
James Lee Williams was the person behind the drag star, who came to the spotlight after winning the first season of RuPaul's Drag Race UK in 2019.
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The star was described by Michelle Visage as 'the best Snatch Game character in the history of the show', but it was The Vivienne's President Trump impression that soared her to success.
Since their stint on the show, The Vivienne has been a beacon of light for the drag community, flying the flag for boldness, creativity, and being yourself. The performer was also able to create a career in TV and musical theatre, something which they described as a 'dream'.
Now, let's take a look back at The Vivienne's incredible life...
Winner of RuPaul's Drag Race UK
Despite her uncanny Trump impression capturing the audience, The Vivienne's highlights from the show go far beyond that.
She adopted the name after discovering a love for wearing Vivienne Westwood clothing. And it's safe to say her outfits on the show never disappointed.
As a contestant on the show, the performer - who was born and raised in North Wales but moved to Liverpool at 16 - described her style 'like a Scouse wife who has come into money, she moved to LA and blew it all and then she's had to move back to Liverpool'.
Nothing short of iconic.
Graham Norton claimed that she had 'it all', and the show led her to stardom.
The first drag queen to appear on Dancing on Ice
The Vivienne made history as the first ever drag star to appear on the ITV skating show in 2023, where she was partnered with American ice skater Colin Grafton. And her performances never missed, as she placed third just behind gymnast Nile Wilson and Joey Essex.
The skating duo choreographed routines to gay anthems, including artists such as Dolly Parton and Cher.
Their week five performance was particularly stand-out, as James made the decision not to perform in drag for the first time. They danced to Beyonce's Halo, and the performance was branded 'inspiring' to many.
Starred as the Wicked Witch of the West
The Vivienne took on the infamous role as the Wicked Witch of the West in the The Wizard of Oz musical when it returned for its UK tour.
She starred alongside Aston Merrygold, and also attended the premiere of Wicked when it made its way to London.
Writing on Instagram, they said: "I don't have many words to say as this is one huge dream. Dream big kids."
TV appearances
The star appeared in a range of shows following her success on RuPaul, including Hunted, Emmerdale and the Great British Sowing Bee.
She also appeared on the celebrity special of Blankety Blank.
Her determination and work ethic are clear to everyone, as not all contestants on drag race were able to build such a fully-fledged career.
With humour as flawless as her looks, The Vivienne will be missed and remembered.
Topics: Celebrity, Entertainment, Rupauls Drag Race, TV And Film, The Vivienne
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